Lockdowns and testing requirements have been imposed after a new Covid-19 outbreak in Kunshan, China, which might impede Apple’s iPhone and iPad manufacturing.
According to the South China Morning Post, authorities in Kunshan have ordered the city’s 2.1 million people to remain inside and undergo daily testing after Shanghai witnessed record Covid-19 cases for the sixth day in a row.
Some of the city’s most important Apple suppliers have also been told to cease work as a result.
Many of Apple’s most important suppliers, including Foxconn, Pegatron, Wistron and Luxshare Precision are located in Kunshan. The city produces everything from printed circuit boards to machine components.
Consumer electronics makers Wistron and Pegatron have reportedly been instructed by authorities to halt manufacturing of products for these companies’ use. Despite the fact that Apple is not named, it is probable that the company’s manufacturing is harmed.
In effect since April 2, and slated to remain through April 12, the factory suspensions are now being used. If the situation in Shanghai deteriorates, more tests and lockdown orders may be issued in Kunshan as a precautionary measure.
This will put more strain on the global supply system, which has already been affected by the epidemic and other global events. The shipment of Apple’s Mac Studio and other goods was disrupted by pandemic shutdowns in Shenzhen in March.
Residents in Kunshan have been told to remain inside their homes till further notice. Every two days, just one member in the home may go out and acquire necessities or supplies. The Omicron strain of Covid-19 was detected in 25 people in the city on Friday.